Where Traditional Medicine Meets Modern Dentistry: A Narrative Review of Evidence, Safety and Integration into Clinical Practice

Author

Dr. Althaaf Khan


Abstract

 Background: Traditional and complementary remedies remain widely used for oral self-care across Africa, Asia and the Middle East, and are increasingly encountered by dentists in multicultural settings such as South Africa. Patients frequently combine these remedies with conventional care, often without disclosure. Objective: To critically review the evidence for commonly used traditional oral health practices, compare them with conventional agents, and propose a safe framework for their integration into contemporary dental practice. Methods: A narrative review of peer-reviewed literature and international policy documents was undertaken, focusing on miswak (Salvadora persica), oil pulling, clove (eugenol), turmeric, green tea, neem and propolis. Results: Miswak shows plaque-reducing and antimicrobial effects broadly comparable to toothbrushing in some studies, supported by identifiable bioactive compounds. Oil pulling and several botanical rinses report reductions in plaque and gingival indices, but trials are generally small, short and at risk of bias. Eugenol has well-characterised analgesic and antimicrobial properties but is cytotoxic at higher concentrations. Systematic evidence indicates herbal products can reduce plaque and gingivitis, though certainty is limited, and chlorhexidine remains the benchmark antiplaque agent. Safety concerns include allergy, herb–drug interactions, inconsistent product quality and clearly harmful practices such as areca-nut chewing. Conclusion: Selected traditional practices may serve as low-cost adjuncts to, but not replacements for, mechanical plaque control, fluoride and professional care. A respectful, evidence-informed and non-judgemental approach, including routine enquiry about traditional remedy use, is recommended. Higher-quality trials and standardised formulations are needed.



Keywords

traditional medicine; dentistry; miswak; oil pulling; herbal oral care; integrative dentistry



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References


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